Florida reports 485 dengue cases in largest outbreak in decades

Florida health officials have confirmed 485 locally acquired cases of dengue fever this year, as the state grapples with its largest outbreak in decades.

Between October 18 and October 24, state surveillance logged 60 new infections, with the Tampa Bay area accounting for roughly 95% of all locally acquired cases recorded statewide.

Emergency declarations were issued in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties in late September to allow for faster purchasing and spraying and requests for state and federal reimbursement. Hillsborough County has since extended its state of local emergency amid ongoing transmission.

The locally acquired infections are separate from more than 300 travel-associated dengue cases reported in Florida this year.

Mosquito abatement teams are stepping up targeted ground spraying, aerial applications, and localized property inspections, according to the Florida Mosquito Control Association.

Dengue is a viral illness transmitted primarily through the bite of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The virus can cause fever, severe muscle and joint pain, nausea, rash, and, in severe cases, dangerous complications or death.

Public health officials emphasize that Aedes mosquitoes are 'container breeders,' requiring as little as a tablespoon of standing water to lay eggs. Officials urge residents to inspect yards weekly and drain or cover birdbaths, gutters, planters, discarded tires, and outdoor containers.

Health authorities recommend taking the following additional precautions: apply EPA-registered repellents, layer properly by applying sunscreen first and insect repellent second, cover exposed skin by wearing loose-fitting, light-colored long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes when outdoors, and eliminate standing water by regularly emptying and scrubbing any outdoor vessels that hold water.

Most people infected with dengue experience mild or no symptoms, typically recovering within two weeks, according to Mayo Clinic. When symptoms do occur, they usually surface four to 10 days after an infectious bite. Severe dengue can progress rapidly within 24 to 48 hours after the initial fever drops.

Warning signs include persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, mucosal bleeding, and extreme lethargy. Anyone experiencing those signs should seek emergency medical care immediately.